Proposed law would require universities to disclose religious exemptions

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Boston (AP) – Congresswoman Katherine Clark is pushing legislation she says will help members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community make more informed decisions about college.

Clark’s bill would require the U.S. Department of Education to publicize colleges and universities that apply for or receive exemptions from federal civil rights protections for students on the grounds of religious freedom.

The Massachusetts Democrat says at least 56 colleges and universities have pursued the exemptions since 2013. She says the exemptions enable discrimination against LGBT students in student admissions, financial aid, housing, sports and clubs.

The bill would require institutions that have applied for exemptions to say so on their websites.

Clark says religious institutions of education have the right to exercise faith, but the surge of discrimination disguised as faith is disturbing.

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